Page:Sparrow, the tramp (IA sparrowtramp00wess).pdf/213

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dog a bad name and it will stick to him,' is a very true saying, and we must clear this poor child's reputation, or by-and-by others besides Hannah will begin to suspect her. Yes, I'll think the matter over carefully and see what can be done. The sparrow moves his family over here to-day, and I am very glad of it. I am in hopes he will turn over a new leaf and stay at home more in the future."

"Seeing is believing," said the barn-cat dryly; "I haven't much hope of him myself."

It was true that the sparrow was about to move. Mrs. Polly's sharp eyes had discovered a deserted swallow's nest just under the roof of the piazza, in a position where she could watch what went on; and she proposed that he should put it in order for his family. The plan pleased the sparrow, and he at once set to work to build. He brought bits of straw and twine and hair,